Part 1 – Problem Identification (25 points / %)

1) Select a problem or challenge you are encountering at work or school this semester that organizational behavior topic may be able to provide insight for solving (e.g., stress, motivation, goal-setting, creativity – the syllabus schedule or textbook are good references for ideas). You may also opt to address a personal problem, but be sure to select something you’d be comfortable sharing with the class. Relatedly, do not include specific names of any individuals or companies.

The entire project will be much easier and more effective if you are thoughtful with problem selection; I suggest you keep it simple, select a challenge that you can work to improve over the course of the semester, and make it relevant or interesting to you.

2) Write a 1 page summary clearly stating (1) the challenge or issue, (2) which one OB concept will help you make progress toward overcoming the challenge, and (3) a brief description on why you selected that topic, how it might relate. Format isn’t important, but be sure you clearly include these three elements for full credit. Example summaries are provided in the appendix of this document.

Example challenges include:

Work or organization-related examples:

· working with an unreasonable supervisor (conflict management, communication)

· absenteeism or turnover issues (motivation, job satisfaction, reward)

· conflict with coworkers (communication, conflict, diversity and inclusion)

· obtaining visibility and favorable work assignments (communication, mentoring)

School-related examples:

· finding an internship (goal setting)

· working with a free-rider on a group project (teamwork)

· deciding on or changing one’s major (decision making)

· raising one’s grade point average (goal setting)

· time management (self-management)

Personal examples:

· increasing physical fitness (goal setting, motivation)

· stopping smoking (goal setting)

· reducing stress (stress)

Grading for Part 1 will be assessed based on the following criteria:

· Did you clearly identify and describe the challenge or issue to be improved?

· Did you clearly state the OB theory/theories that you will apply to solve or progress the solution to the problem? [Please select just one & make sure it’s clearly within the domain of organizational behavior]

· Did you describe how you think the theory will help address the challenge [don’t forget to address the link with at least 1-2 sentences!]

· NOTE: Any late submissions will lose 20% of the possible points earned each day late. No credit will be given for assignments submitted more than 5 days late.